(Cochrane, AB) – Administration presented the Town’s third-quarter financial report at the November 10 regular meeting of Council. The report looks at the Town’s finances from January 1 to September 30, 2025, and provides an update on both operating and capital budgets.
As of the end of September, the Town had collected about 60% of its expected revenue and spent about 52% of its approved 2025 budget. This is lower than the typical 75% benchmark for this point in the year, mostly because some major projects and expenses happen later in the year. Based on current trends, the Town is forecasting a year-end surplus of about $1.2 million.
“The third-quarter results show that we’re in a stable financial position as we head toward the end of the year,” said Drew Hyndman, Acting CAO, Town of Cochrane. “Under Alberta’s Municipal Government Act, municipalities are required to balance their budgets each year. If there’s a surplus at the end of 2025, Council will decide how that money is used, typically by placing it into reserves to fund future projects or cover unexpected costs.”
The projected surplus comes from a few areas. Revenue from building and development permits has been higher than expected, showing continued growth in Cochrane’s housing and construction sectors. Maintenance costs for some Town facilities have been lower than planned, and the first loan payment for the new Horse Creek Sports Park isn’t due until next year.
On the capital side, the Town has spent about $132 million so far this year — roughly 60% of the total capital budget when including projects carried over from past years. Of the 2025 approved capital budget of $85.5 million, about $24.3 million (28.4%) has been spent to date. Many capital projects are underway or scheduled for later in the year, so these numbers mainly reflect timing rather than delays.
Residents can view the full third-quarter report at cochraneab.civicweb.net/document/68041 and learn more about the upcoming budget process at cochrane.ca/budget.
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